In 2009, age discrimination in employment was outlawed. Unfortunately, age discrimination appears to still be prevalent. In 2010, the number of petitions submitted to the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) tripled, but many of them were rejected. Many people are questioning for the effectiveness of the law. According to Saram In, a recruiting firm, among 363 HR experts more than half answered they have discriminated new recruits in employment.
More than 75% of corporations said they have rejected applicants if they are older than age requirement. Reasons were as follows: Senior and colleagues will feel uncomfortable(62.4%) corporate hierarchy will be shaken (24.7%) Some may have failed from employment (18.3%) seem more likely to change jobs (15.1%).

Applicants who were older than the requirements were asked question about age during the interview. It comprised of 80% of the whole applicants. The problem is many cases are reported to NHRCK because it doesn’t meet the basic requirements.

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South Korean Human Rights Monitor is a human rights portal supported by Korea Human Rights Foundation.
We provide news, information and insight in English about pressing human rights issues related to South Korea. The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Korea Human Rights Foundation.
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